News

A grand exit
Cassville teachers lined up at the bus exit on Thursday, the last day of school, to wave goodbye to the students for the summer. Kyle Troutman/editor@cassville-democrat.com It was mostly joy and smiles as children waved to their teachers, riding the bus home for the last time in the 2021-2022 school year.
Trojans receive diplomas
Southwest High School co-salutatorian, Amy Reeves, delivered a memorable address at Thursday night’s commencement ceremony in the high school gym. Sheila Harris/Special to the Cassville Democrat Southwest High School valedictorian, Natalie Johnson, inspired her classmates with a stirring motivational address at Thursday night’s commencement ceremony in the high school gym.

Sports Day fun for all
Justus Greek, Joseph Durossette and Elijah Magee hop on one leg in the noodle traces at Sports Day at Cassville schools on Friday. Kyle Troutman/editor@cassville-democrat.com .
Confetti popped in Exeter
Confetti rained down on Exeter graduates after their tassels were turned on Friday. Kyle Troutman/editor@cassville-democrat.com Cooper Patterson gives Charles Patterson a rose during a portion of Exeter’s graduation Friday.
Wheaton grads celebrate milestone
The Wheaton Class of 2022 popped confetti and tossed their mortarboard hats at the end of the school’s graduation ceremony on Thursday. Kyle Troutman/editor@cassville-democrat.com Elijah Chavis hugs Wheaton High School Administrative Assistant Dale Forgey after receiving his diploma Thursday.
Purdy seniors walk
The Purdy Class of 2022 celebrates a successful school career on graduation night. Purdy’s seniors have added their own spin to the tradition of the hat toss, following up by dousing each other with silly string and confetti. Mike Gervais/Cassville Democrat
Census shows major changes in Barry County
The latest information released by the U.S. Census shows Barry County followed some statewide trends that moved strikingly away from patterns seen in the 2010 census.
Purdy City Council talks tiny houses
Purdy city leaders are considering a city ordinance that would provide rules, regulations and guidelines for community members looking to place a “tiny house” on their property. Purdy City Council members were provided with a draft ordinance regarding the use of tiny houses and asked to review it and return in July with any changes or amendments they see fit to make.
Washburn police calls down by 2, fire up 14
The Washburn Police Department and Fire Protection District recently reviewed 911 calls through 2021, with the police taking just a couple less than the prior year. The Washburn Police Department received 20 total 911 calls in 2021, two less than the 2020 call volume.
Mercy Cassville addresses mental health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Mercy Hospital Cassville’s Senior Life Solutions program is spreading awareness about challenges than can exist in receiving mental health help in rural areas.